Baseball Unveils 2013 Early Signees

Nov 21, 2011

SAINT LEO, Fla. – Saint Leo University baseball coach Russ McNickle is proud to welcome three new student-athletes, all who signed early letters of intent and will be attending Saint Leo starting in the 2012-13 school year.

This year's early signing class consists of three highly accomplished and recognized student-athletes both on and off the diamond. All three are Florida natives and have competed at the highest levels in both high school and travel baseball as they look to bring their experience and winning expectations to Thomas B. Southard Stadium.

"Our coaching staff has done an outstanding job of identifying quality student athletes and quality people to add to our baseball family" said McNickle. "These young men have proven they can compete at a high level while maintaining a high level of academic success."

Dunnigan was 8-3 last year in route to being voted Second Team All-County and All Bay Area Honorable Mention. He posted and 8-4 overall record, posted a 3.04 ERA and allowed only 12 walks in 61 innings. On the offensive side, he also hit .319 and played a pivotal role in Tarpon Springs' regional run last season.

Coach McNickle's Thoughts -

"Michael is a fantastic addition to this signing class and should have an impact right away on the mound. His ability right now is off the chart and I think he can develop into a dominant pitcher in the Sunshine State Conference."

Taylor Perez5-11 | SSWinter Springs, Fla. | Winter Springs HS

A four year varsity starter at 7A Winter Springs High School, Perez hit .359 his junior year with a .484 slugging percentage. He led the team in doubles and RBI's his junior year as well and was voted 2011 All Seminole County Honorable Mention. Perez played his travel ball with the Orlando Scorpions where he was a three year starter.

Coach McNickle's Thoughts –

"Taylor was a player we identified early during his sophomore year as a kid we wanted to continue to follow and recruit. His athleticism and ability to play the shortstop position right away are a big reason we are thrilled with Taylor's commitment to become a Lion."

Chris Williams6-2 | RHPTampa, Fla. | Steinbrenner HS

Williams, a 6'2" right-hander, was 7-2 overall with a 2.20 ERA, 39 strikeouts and 54 innings for the Steinbrenner Warriors and he played his travel ball with the Florida Hardballers.

Coach McNickle's Thoughts –

"Chris is a kid who has the confidence and athletic ability to have success in the Sunshine State Conference. His maturity and ability to throw 3 pitches for strikes will play a huge factor as he continues to develop into what we feel will be a very special athlete."